What Is Tooth Scaling?

Oral hygiene is an important part of staying healthy, but not everyone knows what to expect when they visit a dentist. For example, you may know that you need to make an appointment for tooth scaling, but what exactly is it? What should you expect?

There are two main methods of tooth scaling, but both involve removing plaque from the enamel of your teeth below the gums. Often, the plaque will hide below the gumline, even if you are brushing and flossing properly. This can result in tooth decay where you may not even notice it until it’s already quite advanced.

Most people have gums that are tight against the teeth, but with gum disease, the gums may pull away from the teeth. This can create pockets where plaque will begin to build up.

Methods of Tooth Scaling

Your dentist or dental hygienist may use one of two methods to remove the plaque.

The first method requires using a dental scaler, which is a thin metal tool that can slide under the gums. The tool is then used to scrape the plaque away from the tooth surface and remove it.

The second method uses an instrument that vibrates the plaque away with ultrasonic waves. It uses water to both rinse away the plaque and also cools the metal tool. This method can chip away stubborn plaque with minimal invasiveness.

What is Root Planing?

In addition to tooth scaling, your dentist may also do a procedure called root planning. This is the procedure that removes plaque from the roots and is considerably deeper than regular scaling. This is necessary if your gums have separated more than usual and you have tartar and plaque deep under the gumline.

Root planning helps the gums reattach correctly to the teeth once they’ve been thoroughly cleaned. This is a deep cleaning and is much more than just the basic cleaning that you’ll normally get with a dentist.



What to Expect from Tooth Scaling?

Since tooth scaling is a deep cleaning procedure, it’s more intense than a regular tooth cleaning. If you have sensitive gums, it may be rather uncomfortable and you can ask for local anaesthetic to make it more comfortable for you. It’s also possible to do it in sections over several visits.

It’s completely normal to see some swelling or bleeding after the scaling process, particularly if you have also had root planing done. Once you’ve finished your appointment, be sure to continue brushing and flossing as usual. Your dentist will need to check your gums and teeth on a regular basis to ensure your gums stay healthy.

If you are suffering from gum disease, schedule your deep cleaning appointment with Acorn Dental Health today.